Savory Breakfast Sausage and Cheese Casserole Recipe

A hearty and satisfying breakfast option, this savory sausage and cheese casserole is the perfect make-ahead dish for busy mornings or special occasions. With layers of flavorful breakfast sausage, melted cheese, and fluffy eggs, this casserole is sure to become a family favorite.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This casserole is incredibly easy to prepare and packs a punch of flavor in every bite. It’s ideal for feeding a crowd, making it perfect for holidays, brunch parties, or weekend family breakfasts. Plus, it’s make-ahead friendly and reheats beautifully.

ingredients

this Recipe

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

• Breakfast sausage (pork, turkey, or plant-based)
• Eggs
• Milk
• Shredded cheddar cheese (or a mix of cheeses)
• Bread (cubed, preferably day-old or slightly toasted)
• Salt
• Black pepper
• Onion powder (optional)
• Garlic powder (optional)
• Butter or cooking spray (for greasing the baking dish)

directions

1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with butter or cooking spray.
2. In a skillet over medium heat, cook the sausage until browned and fully cooked. Drain excess grease and set aside.
3. In a large bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, salt, pepper, and optional spices until fully combined.
4. Layer the cubed bread evenly in the prepared baking dish.
5. Sprinkle the cooked sausage over the bread.
6. Pour the egg mixture evenly over the sausage and bread.
7. Top with shredded cheese.
8. Cover the dish with foil and bake for 30 minutes.
9. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 15–20 minutes, or until the casserole is set and the top is golden brown.
10. Let it cool for a few minutes before slicing and serving.

Servings and timing

This recipe yields approximately 8 servings.
Prep time: 15 minutes
Cook time: 45–50 minutes
Total time: About 1 hour

Variations

• Vegetarian: Omit sausage and replace with sautéed vegetables like bell peppers, mushrooms, and spinach.
• Spicy: Add diced jalapeños or use spicy sausage.
• Low-carb: Replace the bread with cooked cauliflower florets or omit it altogether.
• Cheese swaps: Try Monterey Jack, mozzarella, or pepper jack for different flavor profiles.
• Herbs: Add fresh herbs like parsley, thyme, or chives for extra freshness.

storage/reheating

Store leftover casserole in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
To reheat, place individual portions in the microwave for 1–2 minutes or reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through. You can also freeze this casserole (baked or unbaked) for up to 2 months. If frozen unbaked, thaw overnight in the fridge before baking.

FAQs

How far in advance can I make this casserole?

You can prepare it the night before, cover it, and refrigerate it. Simply bake in the morning.

Can I freeze this casserole?

Yes, you can freeze it either before or after baking. Wrap it tightly and label it with the date.

Do I need to toast the bread first?

Toasting the bread helps it hold up better in the casserole, but it’s optional.

What type of sausage works best?

Breakfast sausage (pork or turkey) is ideal, but you can use any ground sausage you like.

Can I use egg whites instead of whole eggs?

Yes, you can use egg whites or a mix of whole eggs and egg whites to lighten it up.

How do I know when the casserole is done?

It should be golden on top and set in the center. A knife inserted should come out clean.

Can I add vegetables?

Absolutely! Bell peppers, onions, spinach, or mushrooms are great additions.

Is this casserole gluten-free?

Not as written, but you can use gluten-free bread to make it suitable.

What kind of cheese melts best?

Cheddar, Monterey Jack, and mozzarella melt well and offer great flavor.

Can I make this in a slow cooker?

Yes, cook on low for about 4 hours or until the eggs are set.

Conclusion

This savory breakfast sausage and cheese casserole is the ultimate comfort food to start your day. With its rich, cheesy layers and customizable ingredients, it’s an easy-to-make dish that’s perfect for everything from holiday mornings to everyday breakfasts. Try it once, and it just might become your go-to breakfast casserole.

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Let me know if you’d like this adapted for a specific dietary preference or occasion!

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